Greek workers protest against austerity measures

Angry Greek workers filled the streets of Athens on Tuesday shouting against further austerity measures by the government as part of a 24 hour walkout in the capital.                

Journalists, lawyers, company and factory workers were just some of the many who protested against reforms already taken and as the government is to decide on further measures that will affect the private sector, before international inspectors head towards Athens.                

Many of the unions are from the private sector and supported by the main private sector umbrella union, the General Confederation of Greek Labour (GSEE).                

GSEE is to hold talks this week with trade federations as Prime Minister Lucas Papademos is pushing the two groups to agree on changes to private sector wage contracts to help boost the economy by making it more competitive.                

Options that are being floated include reducing bonuses, freezing wage rises, or reducing the minimum wage.            

The government may change legislation if the two social partners cannot come to an agreement.  

AP